IPL`s five best captains

There was always this perception of Twenty20 cricket that it was just slam-bang non-stop action with little time for subtle nuances like methodical moves, strategic thinking and tactical planning. On the contrary what the IPL has underscored is that: there is plenty of scope for leadership skills. We take a look at five of the best captains in the tournament.

SHANE WARNE (Rajasthan Royals): He is considered to be, by many experts, as arguably the best captain Australia never had; and his triumphant leadership of the Rajasthan Royals team in the IPL virtually confirmed this. Rajasthan Royals were probably the least fancied team at the start of the competition, but Warne took it as a personal challenge.

Doubling up as coach, he took full responsibility for selecting, coaching, motivating, advising and leading the seemingly motley collection of Indian novices and experienced internationals. His influence was obviously infectious. There he was cajoling his players, making enquiries of each of them, and helping them to perform better than they normally would. The youngsters were inspired by the legendary figure rubbing shoulders with them, and there was no lack of intensity or hunger for success.

Besides the personal touch, Warne is also a deep thinker of the game and there was no shortage of methodical planning, and his placing of two slips at the start of the Chennai Super Kings innings in the final was an attacking move that had to be appreciated. He also had the happy knack of saying the right thing at the right time: when at the presentation ceremony he dedicated the victory to the people of Jaipur, who were left shattered after last month`s serial blasts.